Spring brings forth the crisp air, emerging greenery and Cherry
Blossoms in Japan. Cherry Blossoms, "Sakura" is the national flower of
Japan and is held in reverence throughout Japan. A large number of
festivals are held to honor and celebrate the beauty of the cherry
blossom. Cherry Blossom begins to bloom from the southern island of
Kyushu in late March and moves northward blooming in early May in
Hokkaido.
You will be amazed by the sights of the cherry blossoms
on your spring trip to Japan. But we asked Carol Enomoto who is the tour
manager of Aloha World, a leading tour operator of escorted tours to
Japan to name her three most favorite "cherry blossom" viewing
locations. Although subjective, her choices are held by many including
visitors and people living in Japan.

photo credit: flickr.com

Takada Park in Joetsu city,
Niigata prefecture is the well known for the night time view of cherry
blossoms. Takada Castle which is on the grounds is lit up by as well as
over 3000 lanterns hanging from 4000 cherry trees. All of this
illuminates the park and provides a festive mood for park goers. The
moat surrounding the castle reflects the light of Takada castle and the
lanterns creating a mystical atmosphere. Viewing during the day is no
slouch as visitors are able to walk down Sakura Road, which is a narrow
path, lined with cherry blossom trees on both sides.

photo credit: mymodernmet.com

Himeji Castle
in Hyogo prefecture is well known as one of the 3 most famous castles
in Japan. It is also a favorite of cherry blossom watchers. One needs to
realize that in Japan, there are many festivals which honor the sakura
and Himeji Castle is no different. It hosts the Himeji Castle cherry
blossom viewing Fair which features music performances. With over 1000
sakura trees on the grounds, it is known as a very popular spot in
Japan for viewing.

photo credit: flickr.com

photo credit: tohokukanko.jp

Hirosaki Park is built on the grounds of
Hirosaki Castle in Hirosaki, Aomori prefecture. With over 2600 cherry
blossom trees, it is touted by several travel journalists as the best
spot to view cherry blossoms in the Tohoku region. The cherry blossoms
are set against the white walls of the castle and the pine trees. Over a
million people annually visit Hirosaki Park during this time which
usually runs from late April to early May which coincides with Golden
Week in Japan.

The viewing of cherry blossoms in Japan is more
than just an appreciation of the beauty, as many enjoy the camaraderie
of family and friends. Festivals can be found throughout Japan no doubt
due to the "sakuras" stature as the national flower. It is a time to
enjoy good sake, good food, family and the beauty of spring. On your
next visit to Japan, you too will be in awe of the Cherry Blossom.